Biosketch
Sydney Selby came to UMass Lowell as a member of the Class of 2026, but she chose to accelerate her studies. As a criminal justice major with a minor in Arabic studies, she earned her bachelor’s degree in just three years. Originally from Boulder, Colorado, Selby is a proud quadruplet, with her three sisters studying at colleges across the country.As an out-of-state student, Selby quickly made UMass Lowell her home through various on-campus jobs. She worked with Hospitality & Event Services on major events such as Commencement and contributed as a research assistant studying vicarious trauma in Department of Homeland Security personnel. Her favorite position, however, was interning with the UMass Lowell Police Department, where she became certified in self-defense, aided in community policing efforts and gained a valuable firsthand look at policing operations.
The cornerstone of Selby’s undergraduate journey has been her dedication as a cadet in the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFROTC). Through AFROTC, she has been able to pursue her degree while preparing to serve as an officer, gaining valuable leadership and life skills along the way. During her time in the program, Selby has led the Detachment 345 honor guard and overseen training operations, and she is extremely excited to step into the top cadet position next semester as the Cadet Squadron Commander.
Selby is continuing her education at at UMass Lowell: She is pursuing a master’s degree in Security Studies – Homeland Defense. After graduating in spring 2026, she will commission as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force, launching her dream career in service. Long-term, Selby plans to pursue a doctorate, hopefully at UMass Lowell.